In a bold stride toward advancing financial inclusion and literacy, HerVest, an inclusive fintech platform, hosted the third edition of its flagship event, ValueUp 3.0, at the Shell Hall, Muson Centre in Lagos.
The event, themed “Financial Wellness: Adapt, Grow & Thrive,” brought together professionals, entrepreneurs, and young changemakers to explore actionable strategies for financial resilience and long-term economic stability.
The convener and Chief Executive Officer of HerVest, Solape Akinpelu, set the tone with her opening remarks, emphasizing the collective responsibility in building an equitable society.
“The journey to an equitable and prosperous society is not an isolated one. It starts with me and you and everyone in the room whose presence embodies the possibility of equal opportunities,” she said.
Akinpelu underscored that financial inclusion transcends access to money — it encompasses knowledge, networks, and sustainable growth.
Reflecting on HerVest’s mission, she noted, “When I started HerVest, it wasn’t just an ambition. It was born out of a quiet conviction that women’s financial growth should be normal, not extraordinary.”
She highlighted the platform’s 1commitment to addressing systemic barriers, including unpaid labor and career interruptions faced by women, through tailored financial solutions.
Dr. Juliet Ehimuan, Founder of Beyond Limits Global and former Director at Google West Africa, delivered the keynote address, urging attendees to redefine wealth beyond income and status. “We must embrace change, harness the power of technology, and take bold steps toward economic independence,” she asserted.
Dr. Ehimuan stressed the importance of financial adaptability in navigating today’s evolving economic landscape, advocating for informed decision-making and technological integration in wealth-building strategies.
The event featured three panel sessions delving into critical aspects of financial empowerment.
The first, “From Side Hustle to Scalable Venture: What It Takes,” featured insights from renowned entrepreneurs, including costume designer Yolanda Okereke, Guinness World Record chef Hilda Baci, and Caladium Consulting founder Ayo-Bankole Akintujoye.
Moderated by Usman Imanah, the discussion explored the discipline, systems, and support structures necessary to transform informal businesses into scalable enterprises, with emphasis on opportunity identification and resilience.
The second panel, “Thriving in the Age of AI and Remote Work,” examined the evolving demands of technology-driven economies. Panelists — Gbenga Totoyi of Alan & Grant, Victoria Vodunnu of Flutterwave, Ego Obiegbunam of TRACE, and Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende — highlighted the intersection of work, purpose, and wellness by Tobi Alaka of Empowher NG, the session underscored the need for emotional intelligence, upskilling, and flexible career paths in a rapidly changing job market.
The third session, “Wealth for the Next Generation: Investing with Purpose,” focused on intergenerational wealth-building and impact-driven finance. Panelists Bunmi Ayodele of Wema Bank, Rasaki Salawu of Meristem Capital, Kwara State Agriculture Commissioner Hon. Oloruntoyosi Adebayo-Thomas, and TVC Communications CEO Victoria Abiola Ajayi dissected financial literacy, intentional investing, and long-term planning. Moderator Peju Faloye of OANDO Plc reinforced the notion that wealth creation should align with personal purpose.
A highlight of the event was the fireside chat between Guinness World Record chess advocate Tunde Onakoya and leadership coach Debola Deji-Kurunmi, moderated by Akinpelu. The dialogue centered on personal transformation and community impact, with both speakers advocating for mastery, mentorship, and value-based leadership as catalysts for economic and personal growth.
Beyond the discussions, the event spotlighted HerVest’s tangible impact in democratizing financial access for women. The platform has empowered over 10,000 female farmers and entrepreneurs across Nigeria, including in Borno, Plateau, Kaduna, and Oyo states, through savings, credit facilities, agro-investments, and financial literacy programs.
To date, HerVest has processed over N3 billion in transactions for its 80,000-strong membership, supporting women in rural and urban areas with tools for sustainable growth. Additionally, the organization has facilitated the farming of 1,235 acres of land by smallholder women farmers, further bridging financial gaps and fostering economic empowerment.
ValueUp 3.0 reinforced HerVest’s commitment to creating a future where financial inclusion is a reality for all, regardless of gender or background.
As Akinpelu aptly noted,“We are building an ecosystem where women are equipped to lead financially empowered lives.” The event closed on a resounding call to action for collective efforts in driving equitable economic progress.
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